LeBron, Luka, Lakers Disappoint NBA Fans in Loss to Kevin Durant, Rockets on Christmas
The Los Angeles Lakers' run of blowout losses hit three on Christmas Day after they fell at home to the Houston Rockets, 119-96.
L.A. lost to the Los Angeles Clippers 103-88 last Saturday. Then the Phoenix Suns crushed the visiting Lakers 132-108 on Tuesday.
On Christmas, L.A. trailed by 10 or more points for the entire second half as the team's offense and defense faltered.
Amen Thompson's 26 points led a Rockets team that shot 53 percent from the field and out-rebounded the Lakers 48-25. All five Rocket starters scored in double digits, including Kevin Durant (25 points, nine assists) and Alperen Şengün (14 points, 12 boards).
Luka Dončić and LeBron James have authored many great nights over their stellar careers, but Thursday was one to forget. Dončić did score 25 points but committed six turnovers. James added 18 points but finished at a team-worst minus-33.
The team also suffered a tough blow when Austin Reaves was ruled out with left calf soreness after playing the first half.
This has been a rough time for the Lakers, who need to grind their way out of a rut. They are still 19-10, good enough for fifth in the Western Conference. However, L.A. is also the only NBA team with a winning record to be outscored this year, so there could be some smoke and mirrors with that mark thus far.
Head coach JJ Redick also didn't hold back after the game.
Fans and analysts gave their thoughts on the Lakers during and after a tough performance.
L.A. will hope to end the losing skid on Sunday at home against the Sacramento Kings.
